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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Los Angeles' best

Carnitas

A plate of authentic carnitas prepared with care is the only thing that feels right.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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01
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Small, clean space with comfortable seating and bright, warm decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Vibrant energy fills the room, enhanced by a Spanish rock playlist that sets a lively tone. The vibe balances casual dining with a sense of care and attention to detail.

Dishes feature authentic flavors and fresh ingredients that capture true Mexican taste. The atmosphere adds a warm experience to the meal.

Tender texture and deep seasoning define the carnitas here. They taste like they've been slow cooked with care, offering perfect tenderness and flavorful condiments.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Mexican food and its bold flavors."

"The carnitas are so tender and deeply seasoned."

Good to know

1

First-time customers receive a complimentary drink.

2

They have weekly specials.

02
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Mexican restaurant with huge portions and affordable prices offers a variety of authentic dishes including burritos, tacos, and menudo. Atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with a mom and pop vibe and rarely crowded. Known for balanced flavors and traditional green sauce that reflects genuine Mexican cooking.

Ingredients stay authentic and fresh. The green sauce on tacos carnitas shows real knowledge of Mexican cooking.

Green sauce on the tacos shows authentic Mexican cooking. Carnitas appear in various forms like pulled meat in tortas and hard tacos. The carnitas torta stands out as excellent.

People are saying

"The green sauce tastes like authentic Mexican cooking."

"The Carnitas torta was excellent, a real chef's kiss."

Good to know

1

The food is reasonably priced with large portion sizes.

2

Expect to have leftovers from your meal due to generous servings.

3

The place has been in business for over 30 years, indicating reliability.

03
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Colorful murals and festive music create a lively, authentic Mexican atmosphere with handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients. Bright decor features Dรญa De Los Muertos themes and local sports figures, attracting those seeking authentic tacos and burritos with generous portions.

Tacos feature authentic Lengua and Carnitas with a genuine Mexican feel. Beans and rice serve as classic sides that match the traditional style.

Carnitas burrito stands out with rich, authentic flavor. Tacos combine lengua, asada, and carnitas for a delicious mix.

People are saying

"I had a carnitas burrito and it was just incredible."

"I loved the authentic Mexican feel and delicious tacos."

Good to know

1

The prices at Pinches Tacos are reasonable considering downtown LA's usual costs.

2

Everything is made fresh at Pinches Tacos.

3

The portions at Pinches Tacos are generous.

04
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Old style Mexican restaurant with beautiful wall art and two dining rooms creates a friendly, calm atmosphere despite loud music. Back patio and small bar add to the inviting setting. Frequented by families, it offers a mix of traditional and new elements.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with great quality and delicious taste. Prices stay reasonable while delivering flavorful dishes true to tradition.

Excellent carnitas stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. They pair well with dishes like chilaquiles and keep you wanting more even after you're full.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

"I found the carnitas to be excellent, a real chef's kiss."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available right up front or in a small lot in the back.

3

The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for potential wait times.

05
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Beautiful hacienda-style interior with a stunning bar and comfortable seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Live mariachi music adds lively energy on weekends, while Mexican history pictures spark conversation. The vibe balances charming decor with a pleasant, clean environment.

Carne asada and pollo tacos deliver authentic flavors with fresh ingredients. Guacamole and tacos stand out for their freshness and delicious taste.

Carnitas show up in street tacos and plates, both with a house made touch. The flavor comes through clearly, making them a solid choice during happy hour or a regular meal.

People are saying

"The tacos and carne asada had such authentic flavors."

"I found the carnitas taco to be so delish."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right outside the restaurant.

2

The typical cost for a two-person dinner is around $130, including tip.

3

Happy hour features house-made guacamole and carnitas street tacos.

06
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Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with dishes like red mole enchiladas and birria tacos made from high-quality ingredients. Atmosphere is charming and clean, with a quiet vibe near closing time. Limited parking and a modest exterior contrast with the rich, traditional menu inside.

Tacos feature high-quality ingredients and authentic Mexican flavors. Drinks like orchata and jamaica taste genuine and balanced, not too sweet.

Pork carnitas show up in both tacos and a plate option, both noted as delicious. The carnitas dish stands out alongside birria and mole as a recommended choice.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Mexican flavors and food here."

"The carnitas plate was also delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking might be limited during peak hours.

2

The parking lot is small and shared with other businesses.

3

Prices are affordable, but some menu items lack listed prices.

07
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Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with generous portions of tacos, burritos, and barbacoa. Atmosphere stays comfortably quiet and welcoming with simple, well-maintained surroundings. Cash-only policy and reasonable prices shape the experience.

Mexican flavors here taste very close to home cooking. The dishes deliver authentic spices and traditional recipes that stand out.

Fresh carnitas come with salsa in tacos here. The meat stays tender and flavorful.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic Mexican flavors here."

"These carnitas taste like authentic Mexican flavors."

Good to know

1

El Ranchito Restaurant accepts only cash payments.

2

The prices at El Ranchito Restaurant are reasonable.

3

Their portions are very generous.

08
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Small indoor space offers cozy, friendly atmosphere with comfortable casual seating. Quiet vibe suits those seeking a relaxed meal rather than a bustling spot. Limited seating and parking make it more suited for takeout or intimate dining.

Mexican dishes have a very authentic taste with delicious burritos and tacos that capture traditional flavors well.

Juicy and tender meat defines the carnitas tacos here, packed with rich flavor. Burritos and soft tacos feature the same tender, flavorful carnitas, often paired with tomatillo salsa for added zest.

People are saying

"I had two of the best carnitas soft tacos I ever had."

Good to know

1

The seating is very limited, so plan accordingly.

2

There is a very small parking lot at Pepe's Tacos.

3

There is plenty of nearby street parking available.

09
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Small, cozy space fills with the aroma of sizzling meats and fresh cilantro. Family-friendly vibe includes live acoustic guitar music and lively conversations. Known for affordable, high-quality Mexican food with handmade tortillas and tender carnitas.

Authentic Mexican carnitas come straight from an owner who is a true Dodger fan and passionate about his craft. The place offers filling street tacos with rich, genuine flavors you can smell cooking.

Carnitas here are incredibly tender and delicious, often served in tacos that are filling and authentic. The mixed carnitas and carnitas with beans stand out as tasty options.

People are saying

"The carnitas are tender and flavorful."

"It's authentic Mexican carnitas, so tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1 tacos, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The restaurant provides catering services for events and gatherings.

3

You can purchase carnitas by the pound for home cooking.

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Tight, old-school deli with authentic Mexican vibe and loud mariachi music outdoors. Women slap tortillas in sync over a giant comal, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Outdoor community tables offer casual seating despite worn furniture.

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on East LA tacos that have a flavorful, old-school taste. Food is made quickly and includes items like burrito de surtido and homemade tortillas.

Carnitas come juicy and tender, served hot and ready. Handmade tortillas made without machines add a traditional touch to the tacos, enhancing the overall flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas tacos were very good, juicy and delicious."

"You have to try the authentic East LA tacos here; they're incredible."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays and Sundays, they serve menudo.

2

Parking is tricky, so I parked on a nearby street and walked over.

3

The line can get long on weekends, but it moves fast.

11
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Mexican restaurant offers authentic Michoacรกn dishes with generous portions and reasonable prices. Atmosphere stays family-friendly and pleasant, with a salsa bar available. The setting is casual and tucked away, attracting those seeking quality over ambiance.

Beef broth offers authentic flavor with generous portions. The menu features Michoacรกn dishes that stay true to tradition.

Tender, melt-in-your-mouth carnitas fill soft corn tortillas heated on an oiled flattop for extra flavor. The tacos deliver authentic Michoacรกn style with a friendly vibe.

People are saying

"The authentic beef broth is delicious with generous portions."

"The carnitas here are tender and melt-in-your-mouth."

Good to know

1

There is a 3% credit card surcharge added to your bill.

2

No restroom is available for customers.

3

The restaurant is open until 11 pm on weekends.

12
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Small Mexican restaurant with a laid-back vibe and regulars creates a casual atmosphere. Burritos focus on real Carne Asada and homemade salsa, though portions are small and prices tend to be high. Parking is limited with a narrow lot behind the building.

Basic burritos offer a home-cooked flavor with easy-to-taste blends. They match the authenticity of traditional recipes.

Carnitas burrito stands out as a solid choice with good flavor and satisfying portions. It pairs well with other favorites like the carne asada wet burrito for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic, uncomplicated burrito flavors."

"I ordered the carnitas, and it was good."

Good to know

1

Parking in the back is very small and narrow, with a one-lane in and out.

2

Additional items like meat, beans, onions, and cilantro cost extra.

3

Expect high prices for burritos compared to other places.

13
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Small, intimate space with authentic Mexican decor and vibrant art creates a laid-back, family-run vibe. A cozy full bar offers standout margaritas and cold cervezas. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, reflecting a genuine Pueblo setting.

Authentic Mexican flavors shine through in every dish. The atmosphere feels friendly and lively, matching the genuine taste of the food.

Wet carnitas appear in burritos with a juicy texture. The torta with carnitas stands out for its rich flavor. Carnitas also feature in tacos alongside fish and machaca options.

People are saying

"I found the food to be very authentic with seriously great flavors."

Good to know

1

Dinners at Talpa are around $14 to $17.

2

Expect to spend $20 to $30 for a meal with drinks.

3

Street parking is available, but can be challenging at times.

14
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Mexican restaurant with ancestral cuisine and homemade tortillas offers a quaint setting near historic Olvera Street. Atmosphere features loud music and a cute robot named Arturo, creating a lively yet cozy vibe. Popular for fresh margaritas and tender octopus, it draws a mix of locals and tourists.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavors with perfect preparation and rich taste. Meals consistently offer incredible, authentic experiences.

Two carnitas tacos come with enough meat for more than four tacos and use regular-sized tortillas. The tacos feature homemade tortillas and pair well with tinga flautas or carnitas michoacan.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"I thought the Carnitas were delicious and didn't need salsa."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 margaritas and discounts on drafts and well drinks.

2

Parking is limited, but some street parking is available nearby.

3

A molcajete costs $50, which is higher than average.

15
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Small taco stand offers authentic Michoacan-style carnitas with handmade tortillas and a variety of chili salsas and onion toppings. Atmosphere is pleasant but loud, with samples offered to passersby. Tacos cost $5 each, attracting those seeking reasonably priced, flavorful pork dishes.

Michocan-style carnitas stand out with authentic flavor that closely matches tacos found in Mexico. The carnitas offer a traditional taste that feels genuine and well-prepared.

Carnitas here have a Michoacan-style flavor that tastes very authentic, almost like tacos in Mexico. The meat with skin is especially delicious and worth the drive for its traditional flavors.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be very delicious."

"The carnitas here are so authentic, just like in Mexico."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost $5 each and $20 per pound.

2

Parking is complicated and expensive in the area.

3

The parking lot has 3 spaces exclusive for customers who eat there.

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Mexican restaurant with beautiful Mexican-style decor and a rustic, culturally rich atmosphere filled with vibrant raza music. The space feels intimate and laid-back, offering authentic Mexican street food and a selection of refreshing margaritas and micheladas. Seating is cozy, and the vibe is relaxed and inviting.

Mexican street food shines with authentic flavors and a relaxed vibe. This spot delivers some of the most genuine Mexican dishes outside Mexico.

People are saying

"The flavors here are so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted menu items.

2

Parking is limited; street parking is often necessary.

3

The menu features a variety of fillings, including carne asada and vegan options.

17
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Small Mexican restaurant with counter seating facing the grill where food is made fresh. Atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with limited seating and occasional cold drafts from an open door. Known for generous portions and affordable, authentic tacos and burritos.

Authentic street style Mexican food shines through with fresh burritos and tacos that taste genuine and well made.

Carnitas taco stands out with rich flavor and tender meat. Burritos also feature generous carnitas portions alongside other fillings.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas taco to be phenomenal."

"I found the burritos and tacos to be authentic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Taqueria El Tapatio is cash only.

2

There is plenty of parking in the back.

3

They offer counter service and takeout only.

18
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Midcentury style Mexican restaurant with a hot pink house and multiple cool rooms and patios creates a festive atmosphere lively enough for big parties. Outdoor spaces feature dog-friendly patios with music playing all genres, while indoor lounges offer private rooms and a casual game-watching spot. Energy stays vibrant with a mix of group-friendly vibes and unique campy touches.

Mexican cuisine here features authentic flavors and dishes like the carnitas plate. The menu includes a vegan option alongside traditional choices.

Simmered with garlic and oranges, the carnitas come in generous portions and deliver an authentic, delicious flavor.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The carnitas plate was delicious and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $7, and street parking is limited.

2

Brunch is available on weekends from 11 am to 3 pm.

3

They host events like game days and pride season parties.

19
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Mexican restaurant with spacious seating and decorative tile work offers a laid-back atmosphere despite a fast-paced, annoyed staff. The vibe feels more like a neighborhood ritual than a formal dining spot. Traditional flavors remain authentic, with massive, flavorful tacos and a variety of menu options.

Food serves real authentic Mexican cuisine with a homestyle touch. Breakfast and other dishes offer a delicious variety true to traditional flavors.

Tacos filled with carnitas feature crispy edges and a juicy inside. Taquitos come packed with carnitas, cheese, and sliced avocado, offering a rich flavor.

People are saying

"The carnitas tacos here are the best I've ever tasted."

"I found the food to be excellent and authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

El Abajeno is closed on Tuesdays.

2

There is limited parking available.

3

Adding guacamole to a burrito costs $3.50.

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Stylish interior with impeccable design and acoustical tiles creates a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Lighting is dim, setting a cute, date-night vibe reminiscent of Mexican coastal towns. A great bar offers quality cocktails, including standout margaritas and mezcal flights.

Good to know

1

Happy hour features a DJ playing smooth jams on weekdays.

2

Chulita serves brunch until 5pm on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekend nights to avoid long waits.

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